Topical Bible: Tribe of Benjamin: Revolted from the House of Saul

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in the history of Israel, being one of the twelve tribes descended from Jacob's sons. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his descendants formed a tribe that played a crucial role in the early monarchy of Israel. The tribe's territory was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, which often placed it at the center of political and military events.

Historical Context

The Tribe of Benjamin is perhaps most famously associated with King Saul, Israel's first monarch, who was a Benjamite. Saul's reign marked a pivotal moment in Israel's transition from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. However, Saul's kingship was fraught with challenges, including his complex relationship with David, who would eventually succeed him.

Revolt from the House of Saul

The revolt of the Tribe of Benjamin from the House of Saul is a significant event that underscores the shifting allegiances and political dynamics of ancient Israel. After Saul's death in battle against the Philistines, his son Ish-bosheth was made king over Israel by Abner, the commander of Saul's army. However, the tribe of Judah anointed David as their king, leading to a prolonged conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David.

The Berean Standard Bible provides insight into this period of division: "Now there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. And David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker" (2 Samuel 3:1). This verse highlights the gradual decline of Saul's house and the increasing strength of David's rule.

The Tribe of Benjamin initially remained loyal to the house of Saul, supporting Ish-bosheth's claim to the throne. However, internal strife and political maneuvering eventually led to a shift in allegiance. Abner, a key figure in the house of Saul, defected to David's side, recognizing the divine favor upon David and the inevitability of his kingship over all Israel.

The Role of Benjamin in the United Monarchy

Despite their initial resistance, the Tribe of Benjamin eventually accepted David's rule, contributing to the unification of the tribes under a single monarchy. This unification is reflected in the covenant made at Hebron, where the elders of Israel anointed David as king over the entire nation: "So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the LORD. And they anointed David king over Israel" (2 Samuel 5:3).

The integration of Benjamin into the united monarchy under David and later Solomon marked a period of relative stability and prosperity. The tribe's strategic location and military prowess continued to play a vital role in the defense and administration of the kingdom.

Legacy and Significance

The Tribe of Benjamin's revolt from the house of Saul and subsequent acceptance of Davidic rule illustrate the complex interplay of loyalty, power, and divine providence in Israel's history. Benjamin's eventual support for David helped solidify the foundation of the united monarchy, paving the way for the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

Throughout biblical history, the Tribe of Benjamin is remembered for its resilience and adaptability, qualities that enabled it to navigate the turbulent transitions of leadership and maintain its identity within the broader narrative of God's chosen people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 3:19
And Abner also spoke in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... 5:14) contains an allusion to Benjamin, which is ... all the families which constituted
the half-tribe of Manasseh ... as they were, the chiefs' pride revolted at the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals.
... and a rebellious heart; they are revolted and gone ... about Jerusalem, and from the
land of Benjamin, and from ... But instead of them, subsequently the tribe of Levi ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter xi covenanting enforced by.htm